When it comes to criminal charges, few are more serious or more stigmatized in Weld County than those involving Sexual Exploitation of a Child. In today’s digital world, these cases often revolve around the possession, distribution, or sharing of sexually explicit images of minors. Whether the act was intentional or not, the consequences can be life-altering.
As criminal defense attorneys, we’ve seen how these cases unfold and how important it is for individuals to understand what they’re up against. If you or someone you love is facing charges related to the sharing of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), it’s critical to act quickly and understand your rights.
Greeley Sex Exploitation of a Child Attorney: What Is Sexual Exploitation of a Child?
Sexual Exploitation of a Child typically involves producing, possessing, or distributing sexually explicit images or videos involving minors. When we talk specifically about “sharing images,” the law may refer to it as distribution, dissemination, or transmission of CSAM.
Even sending one image over a messaging app or uploading it to a cloud service can result in serious felony charges. In many jurisdictions, this can carry mandatory minimum sentences, sex offender registration, and long-term parole supervision.
How Are Sexual Exploitation of Children Charges Filed? A Weld County Defense Attorney Explains
Charged under C.R.S. 18-6-403, a person may be charged with Sexual Exploitation of a Child if they:
- Send or forward explicit content involving a minor, even if they didn’t create it.
- Upload illegal content to a website, social media platform, or cloud storage.
- Share explicit images in a private message or group chat.
Common Scenarios That Lead to Sexual Exploitation of a Child Charges in Windsor, Colorado
Not every case is as clear-cut as it may seem. Here are a few examples of how someone could find themselves facing Sexual Exploitation of a Child charges:
- Unknowingly sharing an image: You received and forwarded something without realizing the subject was underage.
- Peer-to-peer sharing apps (like BitTorrent): These platforms can automatically share files you download, leading to distribution charges.
- Teens sharing images among themselves (“sexting” cases): Even consensual sharing between minors can result in criminal charges.
- Cloud backups or email attachments: You may have unknowingly stored or transmitted illegal images through synced devices or backups.
Firestone Attorney for Sexual Exploitation of a Child Charges: Consequences of a Sexual Exploitation of a Child Conviction
A conviction for Sexual Exploitation of a Child—especially involving the sharing of images—can result in:
- Lengthy prison sentences
- Lifetime sex offender registration
- Probation or parole restrictions, including limits on internet access
- Loss of employment, professional licenses, or custody rights
- Permanent social stigma and media exposure
This is why early and aggressive legal representation is essential.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Sexual Exploitation of a Child, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
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